Queen Margaret University

Introduction

At Reverie Films, we believe that great video storytelling can bring a place to life. As a video production company based in Glasgow, we work with organisations across Scotland to craft films that capture the heart of their story. When Queen Margaret University (QMU) approached us to produce a new promotional video, their goal was clear: create a film that reflects the vibrancy, diversity, and spirit of their campus.

QMU wanted something fresh, fast-paced, and engaging, a video that would appeal to both local and international students while showcasing the full university experience. Our task was to combine cinematic production quality with an authentic, human feel, something that future applicants could immediately connect with.

Pre-Production & Concept Development

Before filming began, we spent time with the QMU team to fully understand what they wanted to communicate. The goal was to represent both the academic excellence and the community spirit of the university, giving viewers a genuine feel for student life.

We developed a detailed concept and shot plan that balanced energy, variety, and authenticity. Every location was carefully considered, from the lecture halls and labs to the social spaces and outdoor areas that give QMU its character.

Our pre-production process included:

• Creative direction and storyboarding: Establishing a strong visual flow that captured both study and social life.

• Shot listing and scheduling: Designing an efficient plan to move smoothly between active spaces without disruption.

• Location planning: Selecting areas that represented the full university experience, from classrooms and accommodation to Maggie’s bar, The Nook, and the library.

• Course representation: Coordinating with departments such as nursing, podiatry, performing arts, and music to capture a diverse range of teaching environments.

As a video production company in Scotland, we know how important preparation is when filming in live educational settings. By the time the shoot began, both our crew and the QMU team were completely aligned, with a clear vision of what we wanted to achieve.

Filming

The shoot took place over multiple days to ensure we captured the natural rhythm of campus life. Our Glasgow-based production team worked around live classes and student activity to film real, unscripted moments that would make the final video feel genuine and relatable.

We focused on movement and atmosphere, using natural light and smooth camera work to bring a cinematic feel to everyday scenes. The aim was to make QMU feel vibrant and dynamic without losing authenticity.

We filmed across a wide range of locations, including:

• Academic spaces: Lecture halls, labs, and classrooms where students were actively learning.

• Accommodation: Providing insight into what daily life looks like for both local and international students.

• Social hubs: Maggie’s bar, The Nook, and the on-campus Starbucks, where students meet, relax, and connect.

• Quiet zones: The library and study areas, which capture the balance between focus and creativity.

• Outdoor environments: The duck pond, football pitches, walking paths, and the train line that connects QMU to Edinburgh city centre.

Course-specific footage added richness to the story, with scenes from nursing labs, dance studios, acting workshops, and music rooms highlighting the university’s hands-on, creative teaching style.

Throughout the shoot, our priority was to remain discreet and flexible, blending into the campus environment so that students and staff could go about their day naturally. The result was a collection of real, honest moments that reflected the university’s welcoming and energetic atmosphere.

Editing & Post-Production

In post-production, we brought all of these moments together into a fast-paced, visually engaging 90-second film. Our editors focused on rhythm, balance, and emotional flow, ensuring that the energy of campus life carried through every frame.

Visual Style and Flow

We used creative transitions to move seamlessly between scenes, building a sense of movement and connection across the campus. Colour grading gave the film a bright and inviting look, consistent with QMU’s brand tone and visual identity.

Music and Sound Design

The soundtrack played a key role in setting the mood. Upbeat, contemporary music paired with carefully mixed sound design helped create a modern, youthful energy. Every sound element was chosen to support the story, from the hum of campus life to the subtle background textures that made the visuals feel alive.

Narrative Focus

Even without dialogue, the film told a clear story. Each shot served a purpose: to show that Queen Margaret University is a place of creativity, opportunity, and belonging. The edit was designed to give viewers a sense of movement through space and time, ending on an uplifting note that reflects the optimism of student life.

As a corporate video production company in Glasgow, our post-production philosophy is always the same: create a film that not only looks beautiful but feels true to the people and story behind it.